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Unveiling the Depth: The Artistry Behind Marchand's Smoked Oak Finishes


When it comes to crafting truly exceptional wood flooring, the finish is as crucial as the timber itself.

At Marchand, we understand that colour is more than just a surface treatment; it's an integral part of the wood's character, adding depth, warmth, and a unique personality to every plank. That's why we've dedicated years perfecting our smoking process, a technique that allows us to achieve a level of colour complexity and richness that simply can't be replicated with stains or dyes applied to raw oak. Our smoked range, featuring Fumée Oak, Lune European Oak, and La Forêt Smoked Oak, stands as a testament to this dedication, offering a symphony of nuanced shades that elevate any space.



Smoked oak floors
Complex smoked oak floorings


The secret to our distinctive smoked finishes lies in the meticulous process of smoking the oak before any colour is applied. This crucial step transforms the wood at a molecular level, creating a foundation of deep, complex tones that interact beautifully with subsequent colour applications. Think of it like preparing a canvas before painting – the underlying texture and tone significantly influence the final artwork. Smoking the oak first allows the applied colour to meld seamlessly with the wood's inherent character, resulting in a depth of colour that is simply unattainable on raw, untreated oak.

Why do we go to such lengths? Because applying colour to raw oak on-site, a common practice, often results in a flat, one-dimensional appearance. The colour sits on the surface, lacking the nuanced interplay with the wood's grain and natural variations. It can also mask the wood's inherent beauty rather than enhancing it. Our pre-smoking process, on the other hand, unlocks the oak's hidden potential, revealing a tapestry of subtle shades and textures that enrich the final colour.


Smoked Oak Flooring Range:

Let's delve into the specific characteristics of each finish in our smoked range:

Fumée Oak:  "Fumée" is French for "smoked," and this finish truly embodies the essence of the process. Fumée Oak boasts a rich, modern grey hue with captivating light wood undertones. The smoking process enhances the natural grain of the oak, creating a subtle yet striking visual texture. This finish exudes a sense of modern elegance, lending itself beautifully to both sharp and contemporary interiors. Imagine Fumée Oak gracing the floors of a upmarket apartment or adding a touch of sophistication to a snazzy boardroom (both projects have been done in this colour, of course!)

Lune European Oak:  Inspired by the soft, ethereal glow of the moon, Lune European Oak offers a darker, more deeper palette. The smoking process imparts a delicate dark-brown tone to the oak, which is then further enhanced with subtle colour applications. The result is a finish that exudes a sense of calm and serenity. Lune European Oak is perfect for creating fully wrapped interiors with wooden cabinetry. Picture it in a sun-drenched bedroom or a minimalist dining room, where its moody tones can create a sense of drama.

La Forêt Smoked Oak:  Evoking the mystery and enchantment of a deep forest, La Forêt Smoked Oak is our most natural smoked finish. The intense smoking process creates a light, refreshing natural oak, with no yellow hues. This finish possesses a unique, very complex finish and intrigue to any space. La Forêt Smoked Oak is ideal for the home owner who loves the natural oak but wants something more complex and no yellow.



Smoked oak flooring overlooking Lake Wanaka
Smoked oak flooring overlooking Lake Wanaka

Choosing a Marchand smoked oak floor is an investment in quality, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. It's a decision to embrace the natural character of oak and elevate it to new heights through our unique smoking process. With Fumée Oak, Lune European Oak, and La Forêt Smoked Oak, you can create a space that is not only beautiful but also deeply personal, reflecting your unique style and vision. We invite you to explore our smoked range and discover the transformative power of colour infused with artistry. Experience the difference that pre-smoked oak makes, and create a floor that will be cherished for generations.

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